Carrick has made 376 appearance for the Red Devils since arriving in Manchester from Tottenham-Hotspur in 2006. He has scored 23 goals in United's famous red kit, including a clinical header in last week's 3-0 destruction of Spurs at Old Trafford.

"He is for me my second captain behind Wayne Rooney and he can also read the game as a team player so that's very important," Van Gaal told the club's official television network. "He has also an excellent pass forward. I like as a manager passers forward so that's very important for me."

Carrick has won five Premier League titles and the 2008 Champions League title during his time with United.

Carrick's Red Devils will face a stern test this weekend when the club travels to Anfield to battle bitter rivals Liverpool on Sunday with a spot in the top- four hanging in the balance.